The Philippines Braces for Destructive Winds up to 160 mph and a Deluge of Rain as Typhoon Haima Intensifies

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (October 18, 2016) — The Philippines is preparing to face its strongest storm yet this year, with destructive winds and flash flooding expected in the country’s north.

The Philippine weather bureau forecasts that Typhoon Haima, a Category 5 storm, is set to make landfall in northeastern Luzon in the early hours of Thursday morning, by which time it could pack winds of up to 160 miles per hour.

"Typhoon Haima is bearing down on the northern Philippines and looks capable of causing significant damage to homes, and community infrastructure," warned Ned Olney, Save the Children’s Country Director in the Philippines.

"Save the Children is closely monitoring the storm as it tracks toward the country and we stand ready to respond if required. With such powerful winds and many homes situated along the coast, the potential for damage is high."

Save the Children has large stockpiles of relief items located in warehouses across the country, including thousands of emergency shelter kits, hygiene kits, water and sanitation items and essential household items.

"We are ready to respond immediately if required, and will be assessing the damage and humanitarian needs as soon as the storm has passed," Olney said. "We are always really concerned about the impact of storms like Typhoon Haima on children, who are particularly vulnerable during emergencies."

Save the Children has a long history responding to disasters in the Philippines, including typhoons Koppu in 2015, Hagupit in 2014 and Haiyan in 2013.

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share. Learn more at www.SavetheChildren.org.

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